For those who rely on smart home automation, particularly those using the Home Assistant platform, there is an important update regarding the Home Assistant Connect ZBT-1 devices. Recently, a critical issue has been identified in a specific batch of these devices, which could potentially cause them to fail under certain conditions.

I bought a dongle, and it was defective. Upon further investigation, found its a known issue with the entire batch of Nabu Casa devices.

The Issue

The problem stems from a faulty voltage regulator incorporated in the recent batch of ZBT-1 devices. When these devices are inserted into certain USB-A ports, specifically those on some desktop PCs, the voltage regulator can fail, leading to the device being fully bricked 🚫. This failure is marked by a visible deformation on the device’s casing and a failed chip on the board.

Investigation and Findings

Home Assistant began investigating this issue after receiving reports from a small number of users whose devices were not being detected and showed signs of overheating. Upon closer inspection, the faulty voltage regulator was identified as the culprit. Interestingly, this issue does not affect the Home Assistant SkyConnect devices, which have an identical internal design but were manufactured with a different batch of components.

Replacement Program

To address this issue, Home Assistant is launching a comprehensive replacement program. Users who have purchased the affected ZBT-1 devices will be eligible for a free replacement, regardless of whether the device has failed or not. This program offers a 60-month (5-year) coverage period for verified purchases, ensuring users can continue using their devices with peace of mind 🌟.

For those whose devices are currently functioning, it is recommended to keep them plugged into the device they are working with and not to worry about a replacement unless necessary. However, if a replacement is needed or desired, users should contact the seller where they purchased the device to arrange the return and replacement process.

Commitment to Quality and Sustainability

Home Assistant and Nabu Casa are committed to maintaining high-quality manufacturing and sustainability standards. Despite the high-quality materials and rigorous quality control, this batch of faulty voltage regulators slipped through. The company is taking this as an opportunity to reinforce their values and ensure such issues do not recur in the future.

Conclusion

While this setback may cause some inconvenience, it is a testament to Home Assistant’s dedication to their users and the Open Home community. As users of smart home technologies, it is reassuring to see companies standing by their products and taking proactive steps to resolve issues promptly.

For more details on this issue and the replacement program, you can visit the Home Assistant blog post

We encourage our community to share their experiences and any questions they might have in the comments below. Your feedback and engagement help us stay informed and connected 🐾💬.